Roy Hodgson Announces England Squad For European Championship

Arsenal youngster Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been included in Roy Hodgson's England squad for the European Championship.

Liverpool flop Stewart Downing is another surprise inclusion, with club team-mate Steven Gerrard captaining his country for a second successive international tournament.

Hodgson, 64, confirmed the omission of Rio Ferdinand and Micah Richards, originally reported on Tuesday night.

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Oxlade-Chamberlain is the youngest member of the squad and one of two uncapped members. Norwich goalkeeper John Ruddy is the other uncapped newbie.

Hodgson explained how Oxlade-Chamberlain's performance against AC Milan's Andrea Pirlo and Massimo Ambrosini in the Champions League played a significant part in his selection. Pirlo, of course, plays for Juventus.

Hodgson said Terry's trial at Westminster Magistrates' Court was irrelevant in his decision.

"He is an innocent man until proven guilty," Hodgson said. "So my decision with John Terry was based purely on footballing matters. I realise there will be raised eyebrows."

Richards' exclusion is baffling after he enjoyed a resurgence in form for Manchester City during their Premier League-winning season.

He played 37 games for the Citizens throughout the campaign and was expected to make the squad as the second right-back to Kyle Walker. The Tottenham defender however is out injured with a broken toe.

Richards' omission now ensures Glen Johnson will start in defence, despite defensively unconvincing during his career. Manchester United's Phil Jones, who prefers to play at centre-back, appears to be the cover for the 27-year-old.

Downing meanwhile has endured a miserable season at Anfield. The former Aston Villa did not score a goal or provide a single assist in the Premier League - less on both counts than Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard.

The Football Association have often cited their desire to follow Spain's lead on producing technically sound players, yet Hodgson overlooking Michael Carrick and Adam Johnson contradicts their idealism.